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Mandala Lounge
- Hours:
Wed-Sat 7 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Trendy
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
197 reviews for Mandala Lounge
Review Highlights
"Make sure you check out the back patio."
(in 26 reviews)
"Plus they show awesome kung-fu movies and anime."
(in 15 reviews)
"Greg has always been the most hospitable of people."
(in 33 reviews)
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197 reviews in English
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Review from Michael L.
San Mateo, CA
Updated - 1/12/2012 8 Check-ins Here
What is everyone down there crying about?
"OOOOH! I'M AFRAID OF SMOKE! OOOOH! I'M AFRAID OF OTHER PEOPLE! OOOOH! I LIKE TO TUCK MY D IN BETWEEN MY LEGS CLUCK."
You know what? Maybe you should stay home. No one wants to see you in public anyway.
People need to learn to go out and have a good time leaving their baggage at home. If people that smoke cigarettes bother you then go to Belmont. If you're going to a lounge or a bar, you will see people smoking while they drink. It's not that unusual.
And if you're crying about how you dressed up to go out, and the person in front of you is wearing sneakers and a hoodie and still got in... then so be it. You look good. They look like crap. Let them be. By them looking like a deuce, you look like a baller. They're the beat up 1995 Toyota Carolla, and you're the 2012 M5. Which car do you want to be at the stop sign? Stop crying. The world isn't fair. Worry about yourself.
Big babies... just sayin'.3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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11/12/2011
Straight up, I'm a hater. It's in my blood. Deal with it. Time and time again, Mandala gives me no… Read more »
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Review from Majileen C.
Daly City, CA
1/8/2012
I was looking for a venue to host my birthday party and based on YELP this became one of my choices. I emailed Greg, the owner, and he was very informative.
My friend and I dropped by to check out the place one Thursday evening. We were very surprised and I fell in love with the place =)
From the outside, the lounge looks really small, but the decor and lights are very inviting.
The drinks were really good.
The bartenders were super nice! Adam (bar manager) is beyond really cool!
The lounge is spacious with really comfortable couches.
It's clean. It's pretty.
There's a patio in the back as well... where you can chill and/or dance. Or smoke (but smoking is bad for y'all!)
and Greg (the owner) is AWESOME! He answered all of my questions. He bartends. And I'm sure he break dances too.
So my friend and I decided to celebrate our 25th birthdays here! Greg was amazing at keeping us worry free. I kept worrying about the number of guests arriving and meeting our quota (since we closed the venue for a private event) but Greg kept reassuring me that it would be fine. He kept saying... "Just enjoy the night!" And that's what I did!
THANKS MANDALA LOUNGE AND GREG! I HAD A FANTASTIC BIRTHDAY! -
Review from henry o.
San Mateo, CA
1/5/2012
I went to mandala a few weeks ago on a friday. I saw they had a dress code so I tried to look my best. Little did I know that people wearing hoodies and sneakers were allowed in. If you say you have a dress code you should probably stick to it.
We finally make it inside. The bar is small with a back patio where you're allowed to smoke. By the end of the night the whole place smelled like cigarette smoke. There has to be some health code about smoking in a covered patio. My goal is not to die of second hand smoke.
The drinks were nothing special, but were pricey and the cups they serve your drink in it small and mainly ice and mixer. If I wanted no alcohol I wouldn't have went to a lounge to drink.
The music was too loud for such a small not happening place. Maybe this place would do better in San Francisco, but I feel its trying too hard for San Mateo. -
Review from Jaclyn W.
Redwood City, CA
1/4/2012
I live very close to this area. I frequent the Swinging Door more. I realize different scenes, different places.
I only come here once in awhile. These are the things I have noticed that give me the reason to give the 2 stars.
-1. Drinks are overpriced.
Drinks are VERY WATERED DOWN!
**** If your gonna charge me $9 for a liquor&sprite that better be straight liquor and not in a very tiny plastic cup that cracks... I have dropped $$$$$$$ there so I am not cheap, just sober. ******
-2. You didn't allow my boyfriend in one night because of his attire. When is a nice button up and jeans too grimey for a SAN MATEO lounge?!?!?!
-3. You kicked us out at 12:00 one friday night!!! What?!
-4. Something about the dance floor always tripping me really makes me feel unsafe. Be careful.
+1. They have hookah! The guy is very nice!! I love hookah!!! $15 a hookah....
Overall I won't be back soon unless i am dragged. Thank you for your efforts in trying to make a classy place in San Mateo. It is not working. Welcome everyone, realize your not in SF, and drop your drink prices or get a heavier pour hand. -
Review from Heather C.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
Went back on a Friday and ehh, it was okay. The crowd was of an older age (30+ seriously.) ... dance floor was empty. I still like decor though.
Not for me. :(
edit:
okay, four stars not because I am a fan. but because their customer service is indeed good. The place is way cleaner than your average lounge. The bartenders are extremely friendly also. This is a chill spot and as long as you have your own company with you, you'll have a nice time.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/15/2011
oh hi there nice decor & cute bartender!
never in this area but we decided to drop by on a thursday… Read more »
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Review from leslie A.
Hayward, CA
1/30/2012
I was here for a friday night and it was pretty fun. They had lots of seating area in the lounge and outside. We had no trouble getting drinks from the bar and they were nice and friendly. The only thing that i would like is a dance floor, but other then that its a good kick it spot. I will be back.. no cover charge or any type of dress code
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Review from Luke S.
Pacifica, CA
1/4/2012
Was here on New Years for the first time and don't plan on ever returning. The atmosphere was OK if you're into lounges, but everything else was lacking. The $8 drinks were overly watered down (even my friends coke - just coke - was watered down he said), the lines to the bathroom were ridiculous, the smoke from the patio outside constantly wafted in and DJ Jon Doe looked annoyed that he had to be there while his copy of iTunes played music all night.
We tried it out, had some fun, but as we left the bouncer outside the Swinging Door said it best, "f**k that place!". And thus back to the door we go! -
Review from Cherylynn N.
San Francisco, CA
11/7/2011
PARTY ROCK IN THE PENINSULA?
I rarely venture out of SF to party because there are way too many po pos in the Peninsula with nothing better to do...HELLO DUI!
Initially, I was supposed to go to Fangtasia at Fort Mason for a Halloween party but I've been subject to flip flops/Uggs for the past 6 weeks because of my broken toe. I didn't want to risk getting drunkenly stomped on again so I decided to do a "chill" night with one of my friends. We came to Mandala Lounge a little before midnight last Saturday.
Given all the stellar reviews I expected Mandala Lounge to be spectacular but it was just OK. It's more of a place to chill so if you're looking for the whole "nightlife" experience, go to SF. However, considering there are very few clubs/lounges in the Peninsula, my rating is higher than would it would be if it was located in the city.
C O V E R
*NO Cover
D R E S S C O D E
*Lenient dress code
*Guys are allowed to wear hats and sneakers as long as it looks polished
C R O W D
*The MOST diverse crowd I've ever seen; young, older, and all different kinds of ethnicities (a bit on the ghetto side though)
B A R
*One long bar with 3 quick efficient bartenders
*Cute Asian bartender
D R I N K S
*$9-$10 for Top shelf liquor and specialty cocktails
M U S I C
*DJ spinning Top 40s, Hip Hop and Throwbacks
A M B I A N C E / D É C O R
*Contemporary sleek with Asian themed décor; Buddha artwork and shrines
*Plenty of seating
*Bruce Lee Kung-Fu movies play on the flat screen
*Back patio (tent) for dancing and smoking
R E S T R O O M S
*Two unisex restrooms = long line
P A R K I N G
Street parking
The MOST interesting/entertaining costumes I saw that night?
*Two girls wearing their undies with yellow CAUTION taped on them
*A guy walking around with a pimp cane as tall as he was
*A husky guy in stilettos wearing a bad blonde wig carrying a silver "pole" with him
SPEECHLESS.Listed in: PARTY ROCK IS IN THE HOUSE…
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Review from Lynn G.
San Mateo, CA
1/5/2012
This place is hardly ever open. They have hookah which is cool. The dj is not good. And the drinks are way overpriced and watered down. Way better off going next door to the swinging door.
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Review from Camille L.
San Mateo, CA
1/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Lounge the size of Ravioli House with a backyard that has a small raised platform for a dancefloor, Also, heating lamps. Cheap, watered down drinks. ($7 for vodka tonic? I had to order 2 to satisfy my need for 1.) Perfect for cougars it seems. If that's your thing, 4-5 stars! Otherwise merely OK.
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Review from WN E.
Aiea, HI
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Was there last Friday & will definitely go back! Very cool, very laid back but jumping' all at the same time! Great music (give the DJ a raise!), strong drinks & an awesome ambience. Just go!
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Review from Robert C.
San Francisco, CA
12/11/2011
This place made me feel shaky about the whole Yelp rating structure. I was so excited to check it out. Close to my new place, outdoor patio, kung fu movies, four stars, sounds awesome. Unfortunately this was not going to live up to the hype, there is one tv in the bar that was playing a kung fu movie with the sound off. Very bro intensive vibe from the guys hanging out around the bar and from the bartender. Back patio was very blah. Drinks were overpriced. Meh
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Review from Cat C.
10/19/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Good drinks, good dj, good company & nice ambiance & a back patio. It's a winner! The Mandala Sunrise is a nice refreshing fruity drink yet not so sweet & not too girly! Mandala is a nice alternative to the divey bars of San Mateo.
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Review from Terinna C.
San Francisco, CA
7/17/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been coming here for a couple of weekends now and I have to say I love the atmosphere and the vibe at this lounge! Very modern upscale decor with a nice variety of dressed to impress crowd. On a good night it does get pretty crowded but not so much that you can't move.
There's an outdoor patio for all the smokers. A heat lamp that can keep you pretty warm. Glass tables with chairs. And a little dance floor :)
Definitely have to give ADAM [[I think that's what he said, couldn't hear through the music & people]] a big thank you because he's probably the best bartender ever! He makes great drinks and is quick at it. We always ask for recommendations and he never lets us down! Lol he's quite handsome and really nice if you get the chance to chat with him :)
The DJ has his good nights and bad... but overall it's still a really good variety of top 40 and some of the favorite/classic club hits. Sometimes there's some house playing or some random rock songs.
Only con: limited street parking. -
Review from Sunny W.
9/1/2011
Came here for a going away bash last week on a Friday night and I was pleasantly surprised. I've never been to Mandala before and I'm really glad I've paid it a visit.
The location is surrounded by industrial buildings and PARKING is street.
Interior: Imagine a long rectangular room dimly lit and you've got it. When you walk in, the bar top is to your right with stools and to your left are leather covered cushion benches all along the wood textured walls with small side tables. There were two TVs playing old kung fu movies on mute over by the bar area.
As you walk down the thin room, the DJ is set up at the end of the bar and past that is the exit to the patio. I have to give the DJ PROPS because I LOVED the playlist.
The place wasn't packed. It had a crowd, just not over crowded. -
Review from Tori S.
Menlo Park, CA
6/25/2011
This is my first review in 3 years. So, I thought I'd give it to Mandala.
For the multiple times I've been here not once Mandala has done me wrong. The bartenders are obviously good at the craft they present and the owner (Greg) is very meticulous and attentive at all times.Thus, the sloppy drunks gets thrown out, the tables are nothing but spotless and
the music is versatile by different DJ's that spins there on weekends.
With all things considered, the staff goes above and beyond what is expected to create a chic ambiance for everyone. I've attended many lounges in LA & NY and let me just say they weren't worth reviewing for. -
Review from Andrew Z.
Redwood City, CA
6/3/2011
Several bartenders who look up at you while they get on there iphones and text completely ignoring can suck a fat one.Like you aren't waiting for a drink coming from there weak pouring hands? The bartender that did serve me poured a super sweet, terrible long island, 2 tiny jamesons and one almost all soda compared to vodka. Luckily their dj was the only dude worth mentioning who did a good job.
On the other hand the pub "swingin door" next door has some hot, super fast, attentive bartenders. Place was packed too. -
Review from Laura H.
Menlo Park, CA
Updated - 1/6/2012
I don't know what's up with the yelpers giving this place one star right after New Year's. (interesting they all sound exactly alike) but I digress...Anyway, I really like this place. It had been a while since I'd been back, but I found things just as good as I remembered them. Greg the owner and his staff are really friendly and it still has that cool vibe. They've also added the hooka which is great. Also, drinks are still some of the most reasonably priced around. I don't know anywhere else you can get a $9 grey goose. So, will I be back? Without a doubt.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/21/2010
Love this place. San Mateo (and the Peninsula in general) has been sorely lacking in the hip lounge… Read more »
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Review from Abby S.
4/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
A small group of yelpers stopped in at Mandala Lounge last week. I'd driven by a few times and wondered what it was like inside... So glad we made it there!
The staff at the bar is super friendly. Greg, the owner, gave us a warm welcome and our bartender (whose name escapes me) also introduced himself to us. Although inside is very fun, we had to go sit out on the back patio. It was warm, sunny and inviting. Besides us, the place was empty, but the dance floor out on the patio indicates that this must get pretty packed and wild later in the evening.
Definitely get a cocktail or beer here, as the wine is kind of "meh". It wasn't bad, but I don't think Mandala is really a wine bar. Plus, wine makes me relaxed and sleepy, which isn't the purpose of Mandala Lounge. Methinks they want patrons to stay awake.
Since this hot spot is in my 'hood, I'd definitely come back to shake a tail feather. Anyone want to join me?Listed in: Almost there..., My 'Hood, Dance Dance Revolution
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Review from Tehmin L.
7/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went for the first time and really enjoyed myself. If I'm ever in the area again, I'll definitely go back.
Pros:
- Bartender was super cool. We were litterally the only people in the place at first so we started to chat with him. When it got busy, he was always quick to get us our drinks too.
- Devil's Canyon beer on tap - I've never heard or had this beer before but it was freakin good. I guess it's brewed in Belmont just down the street.
- Back pation - Nice place with some tables and chairs around semi-dance floor. It reminded me of some club in southeast asia.
- Parking was a breeze. Right across the street.
- There is a British pub right next door if you want to bar hop
Cons:
- I'm from LA so the patio was a little cold. Us Socal folks aren't used to this cold weather stuff! -
Review from Szu H.
San Mateo, CA
6/12/2011
This review is sooo overdue!
I go to Mandala's every chance I get because of Greg and my fave bartender Doug. They always make me feel so welcome when I go and who doesn't love to be greeted with smiles, hugs and a yummy Cucumber Blossom cocktail as soon as you walk in. Doug is such a sweetheart and so attentive. If I'm hanging inside with my friends, he'll come check on me to see if I need another drink and sometimes when he sees my glass is empty, he'll bring me another one even before I realize I've finished. Thanks for making me feel VIP Doug...you rock!!
And no matter how busy it gets, I always see the owner, Greg walking around, getting to know his patrons. I've chatted with him on multiple occasions and he really is a solid guy. I had my going away HH here a couple months back and Greg was so accommodating. And he's totally fine with you bringing in food from the outside. He can even give you suggestions on where to order/get delivery from.
Great place to chill, dance, and HH with friends! I love Mandala Lounge. -
Review from Christopher L.
Hayward, CA
6/20/2011
This is totally an unexpected place to find in San Mateo. Hidden away in a little nook off of 25th ave. Parking is horrible on certain days, but overall not bad. Drinks are at an average price and the place seems nice and quaint.
There is even a security guard to check ID's, but I don't think he comes till later on the night. It's a little sketch when it comes to the dress code though because you will see some people inside without proper dress code. So if you plan on going just be prepared and show up dressed for the event.
I will def go back for other events. -
Review from Lisa D.
Daly City, CA
5/9/2011
luv me sum Mandala Lounge
Why?
-spiffy, tasteful, themed decor
-lots of seating inside and out on the patio
-yummy drinks
-fast service--you don't have to wait forever for a bartender to take your order..even on night when it's really crackin
-great music (especially by the regular Saturday night DJ)
-mixed group of ages and backgrounds in the crowd
above all..it's really comfortable and intimate. -
Review from Cindy C.
3/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
Love this place.
We first stumbled upon it when it was first opened, like 2nd or 3rd day, after a day at the San Mateo County Fair. We were all too tired and not dressed up enough to go to a bar, so we did a quick walk though (tour given by the owner himself!) and promised to return shortly.
The next time, we were there for a Yelp Elite Event. It was a wonderfully memorable and fun time.
Since then, I've been back for casual drinks/catching up with friends and also for a whiskey tasting. Had great fun every. single. time.
Great space. Nice back patio space too. Super duper close to our house which is also a big plus. Can't wait to go again. -
Review from James W.
San Mateo, CA
3/8/2011
This is as good as it gets in terms of trendy lounges in the peninsula. Greg, the owner, knows how to make everybody feel VIP. They also do private events. I've hosted two theme parties here in the past utilizing the large enclosed back patio.
Because it's San Mateo, there will be some good and some bad nights. Go with an open mind and enjoy the kung-fu flicks in the background. Drinks are pricier than surrounding neighborhood bars but the place is nicer and it helps keeps out some of the unwanted guests. Bottle service is reasonable.
FYI - Cops like to post up on 25th so have a D.D. or sober up before you drive. -
Review from Logan C.
San Mateo, CA
10/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great for partys and the owner Greg was very accommodating .
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Review from Vanessa W.
San Francisco, CA
1/23/2011
If I were a lounge, I would be...Mandala Lounge.
It is located in a what looks to be a spotty neighborhood - with the local pub (a few doors down) patrons yelling and laughing.
Once you step foot in Mandala - however - you will be amazed. The exterior looks minimal and boring but the interior is lush, elegant and comfy. My man and I grabbed a seat along the booth that lined the wall and was able to beat the crowd before they rushed in around 11 on Saturday night.
The DJ was spinning some awesome music - very danceable with top 40s and occasionally some old school.
The back patio was the best. It reminded me of the EndUp in San Francisco and had head lamps and a dance floor. I felt safe all night - there was a security guard at the back patio and there was a bouncer and a security guard outside the lounge.
Greg, the owner, was behind the bar making drinks. I have never seen an owner working double shift as a bartender. That says a lot about him - someone who cares about his club and I can really appreciate that. He was super friendly after I told him it was our first time at the lounge and he went out of his way to make sure that we were having fun.
They have a great cocktail list and plenty of beer choices. I really don't know why I need to venture out to SF (I've relocated to the Peninsula) for clubs. I would definitely come back in a heartbeat. -
Review from Jenny H.
1/5/2011
Helloooo 2011!
Mandala Lounge is my kind of place. Great decor, chill vibe and great service from the bar staff! We rang in 2011 here and couldn't ask for a better time.
$60 for unlimted drinks the whole night.....what more to ask for?? Let's just say by the end of the night everything was just a tad fuzzy.
Special thanks to the owner Greg who took great care of our whole group.
See you for happy hour next! -
Review from Alexis B.
San Francisco, CA
Make sure you check out the back patio. It's pretty cool. More than I expect out of a San Mateo bar. The interior is pretty swanky too.
The bartender (Adam?) was very friendly and helpful. He said to check it out again on a Sat. night when they have a DJ. We were here on a Thurs. night for the Yelp Drinks event. The music was fun that night too. It just wasn't buzzin busy as I might expect on a weekend.
Hubby and I loved our drink the "Bangkok Bullet" (a whiskey drink.) We can't wait to go back to use our groupon on a weekend. Woo! -
Review from Leo S.
Oakland, CA
9/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Good people.. 5Stars!
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Review from KissTeL M.
San Mateo, CA
4/6/2011
I don't know.. I guess a lot of people have had a great time here. Good for them. I've been here twice, and I'm not as impressed.
Decor is nothing special. Drinks are pricey, but that's nothing new. Nothing special. Crowd has a good mix and usually decent. Security is good at kicking out drunks. Haha. I do love the Kung-fu flicks showing in the bar TV. Hrmmm... People seem to rave about the patio. It's not that special either, even the patio heaters are weak. The dancefloor in the patio is raised and people keep falling or tripping.
Oh well, maybe I'll enjoy next time... i don't know. -
Review from elaine l.
11/14/2010 1 Check-in Here
Stopped in to evaluate Mandala as a possible bday party site. Turns out it's just a little loud on Saturday nights (DJ) for the crowd we expect but I did like the decor, friendly barstaff, diverse crowd, rear patio and kung fu flicks. Maybe it's a fall/winter thing (is the patio covered when it's cool?) but the whole place did smell fairly smoky (from people smoking by open doors at both front and rear), which my date was very sensitive to.
I'd go back, just not for the event I'm planning now. -
Review from Mish L.
Updated - 9/8/2010
Okay, the reason for the +2 stars is not because I've been back (yet), but solely because of the owner, Greg, and his stand up service. What a fantastic guy!
Not too long after I wrote my less-than-happy-with Mandala review, I received an email back from Greg addressing each of the issues we had on our visit. Talk about a prompt response!
He was professional, courteous and really took the time to address each issue. It showed that he cared about our experience and allowed us the opportunity to dish it out.
When it boils down to it, I think what was important was that he understood where I was coming from, and I understood where he was coming from. I think I was harsh and unfair in nitpicking after I got pissed off about the slow service, and he really empathized with me. We'll chop it up to a rare fluke-- it's all water the bridge now.
And for the record, the plants in the patio ARE, in fact, real (my bad on that one!), and despite me being nitpicky, Greg was kind of enough to explain the reason why the black stools were replaced was b/c they had became worn and tattered. Fair enough.
I really believe that if you treat others with courtesy and with respect, you will get that back. So thanks Greg for taking the time to address each issue in a positive, professional manner!
I'm looking forward to going back to give this spot a 2nd chance and meet Greg! :-)1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/26/2010
Small-ish, average lounge in San Mateo. I was expecting a lot more and Mandala really didn't… Read more »
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Review from Adrienne C.
Burlingame, CA
1/4/2011
Great DJs, classy place, nice Asian decor, outdoor dance floor, variety of clientele and fantastic bartenders/owner. Greg (owner) bought me a shot of my favorite (Patron) for my birthday (as did everyone else in my group... yikes...)
Have been twice and plan to go back. I haven't found anyplace quite like it without going all the way to The City or P.A. -
Review from Samantha C.
San Jose, CA
8/13/2011
Nice decor, very cool bartender, great cocktails! Wasn't too crowded on a thurs but I can imagine this place to be packed on weekends
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Review from Inigo M.
San Francisco, CA
1/1/2011
Pleasant owners, attentive bartenders. Cozy feel.
Good option for New Year's Eve revelry if you're City-averse. -
Review from Amber K.
Walnut Creek, CA
1/6/2011
I have to take a moment and recognize a job very well done. Mandala Lounge knows how to create the right atmosphere, offer great service and appeal to an attractive group of fun individuals that know how to have a good time- which isn't always an easy feat.
The decor is perfect and the drinks are tasty (and strong), very comfortable place to spend your Thursday, Friday or Saturday night. My friends and I meet up at Mandala once a week to share a few good laughs, a few great drinks and mingle with the locals that also frequent the place.
Greg, the owner, is a charmer. He knows the business and is such a pleasure to work with even outside of Mandala. Greg has hosted events at my gym and they're always a blast!
I highly recommend checking out Mandala, if you haven't already! -
Review from Kristi E.
San Mateo, CA
5/27/2011
I absolutely cannot stand this lounge. I was hoping for a nice classy place that my boyfriend and I would enjoy relaxing at with friends. The drinks were decent but nothing special. This place was boring with no entertainment. Also if you like meeting Asian people, then this is the place to go.
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Review from Kylie H.
Fremont, CA
6/27/2011
Don't judge a book by it's cover! This place looks like a hole in the wall on the outside, but it's beautiful on the inside! A friend of mine rented out this place last Saturday for his birthday and we all had a blast! The interior had modernized decor and two flat screens continuously playing old school Kung Fu movies. The bathrooms were probably the cleanest bathrooms I've ever encountered at a lounge/club. The bartenders are super nice and the staff were very attentive to busing our empty glasses and dirty napkins. Overall, I had a pleasant experience at Mandala Lounge.
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Review from Ariel S.
South San Francisco, CA
8/30/2010 1 Check-in Here
I. Love. Mandala.
Been here a few times now, and each time, Mandala has delivered. When I'm not in the mood to make the effort to tramp on over into The City and deal with cover charges, overpriced watery drinks, and complicated parking, Mandala is a great place to go to laugh, dance, spend a night with good drinks and good company. The atmosphere has an upscale air about it without making you feel uncomfortable.
Attentive bartenders who are skilled and timely with orders, although one time a bartender took my order, and forgot...admittedly it was a very busy night and the bartender was nice enough to bring me my drink, on the house nonetheless!
Overall, if you're looking for a taste of a night out in The City without having to deal with the long drive, Mandala is definitely the place to be on a Friday night in San Mateo.
Upside: Great drinks, reasonable prices, laid-back atmosphere, GREAT DJ
Downside: Having that eye contact with someone you knew in high school, and having that shared moment of "I know you, and I know you know me, but instead of saying 'Hi,' we're just going to awkwardly shoot glances at one another and never actually say anything to each other."
Goal in life: Become friends with the owner, who seems like a nice guy who sits and chats with people who seem to be regulars.
Five stars!!
